Buzz : The Life and Art of Busby Berkeley

Spivak, Jeffrey

ISBN 10: 0813126436 / ISBN 13: 9780813126432

Published by University Press of Kentucky, USA, 2011

About this Item

First edition, first impression 2011 SIGNED by Jeffrey Spivak fine hardback in a fine dust wrapper. Protected by clear removable archival covering. No inscription. 367 pages with index. Appendix: The Works of Busby Berkeley. Illustrations. Seller Inventory # 0018548

Bibliographic Details

Title: Buzz : The Life and Art of Busby Berkeley

Publisher: University Press of Kentucky, USA

Publication Date: 2011

Binding: Hardcover

Condition: Fine

Dust Jacket Condition: Fine

Signed: Signed by Author(s)

Edition: 1st Edition

About this title

Synopsis:

Characterized by grandiose song-and-dance numbers featuring ornate geometric patterns and mimicked in many modern films, Busby Berkeley's unique artistry is as recognizable and striking as ever. From his years on Broadway to the director's chair, Berkeley is notorious for his inventiveness and signature style. Through sensational films like 42nd Street (1933), Gold Diggers of 1933 (1933), Footlight Parade (1933), and Dames (1934), Berkeley sought to distract audiences from the troubles of the Great Depression. Although his bold technique is familiar to millions of moviegoers, Berkeley's life remains a mystery.

Buzz: The Life and Art of Busby Berkeley is a telling portrait of the filmmaker who revolutionized the musical and changed the world of choreography. Berkeley pioneered many conventions still in use today, including the famous "parade of faces" technique, which lends an identity to each anonymous performer in a close-up. Carefully arranging dancers in complex and beautiful formations, Berkeley captured perspectives never seen before.

Jeffrey Spivak's meticulous research magnifies the career and personal life of this beloved filmmaker. Employing personal letters, interviews, studio memoranda, and Berkeley's private memoirs, Spivak unveils the colorful life of one of cinema's greatest artists.

About the Author:

Jeffrey Spivak writes about film for periodicals and websites.